Essential Job Responsibilities

Safeguarding Responsibilities

• Actively learns about safeguarding and integrates it into their work, including safeguarding risks and mitigations related to their area of work ·
• Practices the values of Mercy Corps including respecting the dignity and well-being of participants and fellow team members ·
• Encourages openness and communication in their team; encourages team members to submit reports if they have any concerns using reporting mechanisms e.g., Integrity Hotline and other options

Technical Responsibilities

Programme Management

• Lead and provide strategic direction to the programme, coordinating with the Country Leadership Team
• Oversee learning processes in collaboration with the MEL team
• Ensure programme implementation is aligned with Mercy Corps’ values and responsive to community and partner needs.
• Manage programme delivery to ensure timeliness, budget adherence, and measurable impact through effective M&E systems.
• Ensure compliance with contract terms, Mercy Corps minimum standards, and relevant regulations.
• Supervise the identification, onboarding, and performance of sub-contractors and sub-grantees.
• Establish and maintain transparent financial systems for accurate and timely reporting in line with donor and Mercy Corps requirements.
• Collaborate with finance and operations teams to ensure systems are in place for effective field operations, including logistics, procurement, and P&C.

Strategic Leadership

• Provide overall strategic direction for the programme in alignment with donor priorities and national development goals.
• Lead the development, implementation, and periodic review of annual and multi-year work plans.
• Monitor programme progress and adapt strategies to respond to contextual changes and emerging needs.
• Represent the programme in high-level meetings, coordination platforms, and stakeholder engagements.

Compliance

• Ensure programme implementation adheres to donor requirements, organisational policies, and national laws.
• Oversee financial management, procurement, and grant processes to meet audit and compliance standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure timely submission of narrative and financial reports.
• Identify compliance risks and implement appropriate mitigation and control measures.

Partner Relationship Management

• Cultivate strong and collaborative relationships with implementing partners, government entities, and civil society organisations.
• Support partners in planning, implementation, reporting, and compliance with programme guidelines.
• Organise and lead regular coordination, review, and learning sessions with partners.
• Resolve implementation challenges with partners and promote accountability and shared learning.

Human Resources Management

• Provide leadership and line management to programme staff, including performance management and team development.
• Lead recruitment and onboarding processes in line with HR policies and programme needs.
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and accountable team culture focused on results and continuous improvement.
• Identify capacity gaps and support staff development through coaching, mentoring, and training.

Donor Relations

• Act as the focal point for communication and coordination with the donor.
• Ensure timely submission of high-quality reports, proposals, and other required documentation.
• Keep the donor informed on programme progress, challenges, and key developments.
• Coordinate and support donor field visits, audits, and evaluations.

Security Management

• Monitor and assess the security environment in areas of operation, advising on potential risks.
• Develop and update security plans and protocols in line with organisational policies.
• Ensure staff are trained and briefed on safety and security procedures.
• Liaise with security actors and coordination bodies to enhance preparedness and response capacity.

Gender and Social Inclusion

• Lead localized analyses to understand how gender influences vulnerabilities, drivers, and social capital relevant to programme objectives.
• Ensure gender considerations are embedded in research, stakeholder engagement, planning, implementation, and policy advocacy.
• Tailor strategies and services to the diverse experiences and identities of individuals, addressing intersections of gender with other social factors like education, ethnicity, and economic status.

Safeguarding Responsibilities

• Actively learn about safeguarding and integrates it into their work, including safeguarding risks and mitigations related to their area of work ·
• Practice the values of Mercy Corps including respecting the dignity and well-being of participants and fellow team members ·
• Encourage openness and communication in their team; encourages team members to submit reports if they have any concerns using reporting mechanisms e.g., Integrity Hotline and other options

Knowledge and Experience

• Master’s Degree in conflict management, social sciences, international development, political science, or other related field preferred. A Bachelor’s Degree with significant relevant experience may be accepted in lieu.
• Seven years’ experience delivering conflict management, governance and/or peace-building interventions in the NGO sector. 
• Deep understanding of the policy and institutional landscape as it relates to violent extremism in Uganda.
• Ability to engage diplomatically and sensitively at a senior policy level and build relationships of trust
• Demonstrated experience in coaching, conducting workshops and community meeting facilitation as well as designing and strengthening training resources and curricula
• Proven track record of effective management of local partners, including on-boarding, capacity-building, performance management and reporting.
• Proven track record in managing the programme cycle, from start-up to implementation to close-out
• Financial management skills and experience managing large budgets.

• Proven track record in managing teams and building capacity  

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

• Highly organised and a self-starter

• Excellent computer skills, including all Microsoft applications.  
• Professional level proficiency in English